Getting a Saskatchewan Drivers License: Requirements and Things to Know

Getting a Saskatchewan Drivers License: Requirements and Things to Know

If you want to drive in Saskatchewan you need to have a driver’s license.

The process for getting a license is pretty simple, but it will require you to study the information in the driver’s handbook and demonstrate your ability to drive safely. The basic examination consists of 2 parts: a written test and a road test. If you have a license from another province or if you have a U.S. driver’s license, reciprocity may apply which can mean a new license for you without having to take the tests. Read on to learn more about the licensing process and to get helpful tips every step of the way.

How To Proceed

1

Learn About the Graduated Licensing Program

If you are trying to get a first time license in Saskatchewan you will need to complete a graduated licensing program. There is a version of graduated licensing in most Canadian provinces and territories. Basically the program protects drivers with little experience by slowly adding in risk and privileges. This keeps drivers safe and helps them to learn to drive safely and effectively. If you are getting your license for the first time these restrictions will apply to you no matter your age. You should take a little time to acquaint yourself with the various steps and requirements so that you will be ready and know what to expect.

2

Get a Driver’s Handbook

A great way to learn all you need to know about driving in this province is to read the driver’s manual. This helpful guide can be purchased from your local driver’s office location. There are 12 full service locations in Saskatchewan and more than 50 smaller offices that serve small, outlying communities. You can find your nearest location by looking in your phone book. A copy of the handbook can also be found online here: Saskatchewan driver’s handbook.

3

Study Your Handbook

You should view your driver’s handbook as a study guide of sorts. It will walk you through everything that you will need to know to get your driver’s license. It will be a useful reference now as you prepare for your license and in the future. Keep your guide handy so that you can look up quality information when you have questions and have started driving.

4

Enroll in Driver’s Education

Saskatchewan has a mandatory driver’s education requirement for all drivers that do not complete driver’s education through their high school. This requirement mandates at least 6 hours of instruction in the classroom and another 6 hours driving behind the wheel. This requirement must be completed in an approved school. Find a complete list of approved providers for your area online here: Saskatchewan driving schools. Make sure you receive a certificate of completion once your class work is completed.

5

Take Your Written Test

When you feel ready you can take your written test. Before doing this we strongly recommend you use our FREE Saskatchewan Practice Test. To take this test you will need to fill out paperwork, prove your identity and pay a fee. Bring along proof of age and identity. Many people choose to use a passport or a birth certificate to verify their identity. Residency will also need to be proven. You can do this with utility bills or a tax form. The test will consist of multiple choice questions with the information directly taken from the handbook. If you have studied carefully you should be able to pass your test on the first try.

6

Start Driving

Now you have a great opportunity to start driving. Make sure that you really take advantage of it by practicing whenever you can. There are some restrictions while practicing like you must have a licensed driver supervising you and you cannot drink before driving. Also your passengers must all be immediate family and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. since these times are especially dangerous. During this time you only have a provisional learner’s license and cannot act as a supervising driver for another driver.

7

Take Your Road Test

When you feel comfortable, schedule your road test. This test will require you to drive with a test administrator and demonstrate basic skills like driving with other vehicles on the road, staying in your lane, starting and stopping and parallel parking. You will need to provide your own vehicle which must meet minimum safety standards and be licensed. Make sure that you wear your seat belt and that you pay careful attention to the instructions that are provided by the administrator.

8

Listen to Feedback

Whether you pass or fail your on the road test you will receive valuable feedback. This feedback will help you to further hone your skills and to practice more if necessary. You will also find out if you have passed or failed your test. If you pass you can receive a novice license which will allow you to drive by yourself as long as specific requirements are met.

9

Requirements for a Novice Driver

Novice drivers must follow special restrictions in order to drive. For example you will only be able to drive after 5 a.m. and before midnight. If you want to drive during this restricted time you will need a supervising driver. If you must drive during this time for work or other reasons, apply for a special permit that can allow this restriction to be lifted. Also you can only have as many passengers as your car has seatbelts and only one of these passengers can be a non-family member. You must also abstain from alcohol before driving and have a blood alcohol level of 0%. This level 1 novice license will be held for 6 months.

10

Obtain a Novice Level 2 License

After the first 6 months of licensure you can get your novice level 2 license. During this time you must have a seatbelt for all passengers and you cannot drink before driving. Your license is still restricted so you do not qualify to supervise others while driving.

11

Meet the Requirements for a Full License

After 12 months of holding a level 2 novice license you can finally receive an unrestricted license. Congratulations on your achievement. You should also know that during the level 2 stage you cannot have any at fault accidents, tickets or suspensions. If you do receive any of these your 12 months will start over and you will have to complete a driver improvement program before you can receive a full license.